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Pressure Systems

What are Pressure Systems (under the safety regulations)?

Pressure systems are defined as "a system comprising one or more pressure vessels of rigid construction, any associated piping and protective devices and pressure accessories which contain or is liable to contain a relevant fluid".  Examples of pressure systems include steam heating systems, compressed gases systems, autoclaves and certain cafe boilers.  Certain equipment is exempted because of reasons of practicality, lack of incident history or because it's safety is addressed by other legislation. 

Why are Pressure Systems a safety concern?

In the event of a pressure system failing there is a high risk of fatalities, serious injuries and cause major damage to property which is why they are specific regulations and checks required for these systems.

What regulations and Health & Safety Authority guidance are there on Pressure Systems?

The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 were passed to provide for the safe management of pressure systems. The Health and Safety Authority have also issued guidance on these Regulations Guide to the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 Pressure Systems.

What University of Galway guidance is there on Pressure Systems?

For the University of Galway Units with relevant equipment this Pressure Systems Guidance Note has been developed.  On the specific aspect of Code of Practice Compressed Gas Cylinders has also been developed for University of Galway Units using these gases.  There is also authoritative guidance and codes available on this British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA) Link.

Do Pressure Systems have to be statutorily examined and how is this arranged?

Many items of pressure equipment require to be statutorily examined by a competent person.  This is arranged as part of the NUI Galway insurance contract and this link summarizes the Statutory Examination Process including Unit Site Contacts, access to reports and their follow-up.